Vessel sealing instrument with electrical cutting mechanism

ABSTRACT

An end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing vessels and cutting vessels includes a pair of opposing first and second jaw members which are movable relative to one another from a first spaced apart position to a second position for grasping tissue therebetween. Each jaw member includes an electrically conductive tissue contacting surface connected to an electrosurgical energy source. At least one of the jaw members includes an electrically conductive cutting element disposed within an insulator defined in the jaw member. A rigid structural support is included which is configured to support the electrically conductive tissue sealing surface and includes at least one flow channel defined therein.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/932,612, filed on Sep. 2, 2004, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, which is a continuation-in-part of PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US03/28539 filed on Sep. 11, 2003, entitled “ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY FOR SEALING AND CUTTING TISSUE AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING SAME,” which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/416,064 filed on Oct. 4, 2002, entitled “ELECTRODE ASSEMBLY FOR SEALING AND CUTTING TISSUE AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING SAME,” the contents of both being incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a forceps used for both endoscopic and open surgical procedures that includes an electrode assembly that allows a user to selectively seal and/or cut tissue. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a forceps that includes a first set of electrically conductive surfaces that applies a unique combination of mechanical clamping pressure and electrosurgical energy to effectively seal tissue and a second set of electrically conductive surfaces that is selectively energizable to sever tissue between sealed tissue areas.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Open or endoscopic electrosurgical forceps utilize both mechanical clamping action and electrical energy to effect hemostasis. The electrode of each opposing jaw member is charged to a different electric potential such that when the jaw members grasp tissue, electrical energy can be selectively transferred through the tissue. A surgeon can either cauterize, coagulate/desiccate and/or simply reduce or slow bleeding, by controlling the intensity, frequency and duration of the electrosurgical energy applied between the electrodes and through the tissue.

Certain surgical procedures require more than simply cauterizing tissue and rely on the combination of clamping pressure, electrosurgical energy and gap distance to “seal” tissue, vessels and certain vascular bundles. More particularly, vessel sealing or tissue sealing is a recently-developed technology that utilizes a unique combination of radiofrequency energy, clamping pressure and precise control of gap distance (i.e., distance between opposing jaw members when closed about tissue) to effectively seal or fuse tissue between two opposing jaw members or sealing plates. Vessel or tissue sealing is more than “cauterization”, which involves the use of heat to destroy tissue (also called “diathermy” or “electrodiathermy”). Vessel sealing is also more than “coagulation”, which is the process of desiccating tissue wherein the tissue cells are ruptured and dried. “Vessel sealing” is defined as the process of liquefying the collagen, elastin and ground substances in the tissue so that the tissue reforms into a fused mass with significantly-reduced demarcation between the opposing tissue structures.

To effectively seal tissue or vessels, especially thick tissue and large vessels, two predominant mechanical parameters must be accurately controlled: 1) the pressure applied to the vessel; and 2) the gap distance between the conductive tissue contacting surfaces (electrodes). As can be appreciated, both of these parameters are affected by the thickness of the vessel or tissue being sealed. Accurate application of pressure is important for several reasons: to oppose the walls of the vessel; to reduce the tissue impedance to a low enough value that allows enough electrosurgical energy through the tissue; to overcome the forces of expansion during tissue heating; and to contribute to the end tissue thickness which is an indication of a good seal. It has been determined that a typical instrument gap is optimum between about 0.001 and about 0.006 inches. Below this range, the seal may shred or tear and the jaws may “short circuit” and not deliver the proper energy to the tissue. Above this range, thin or small tissue structures may not be properly or effectively sealed.

With respect to smaller vessels, the pressure applied becomes less relevant and the gap distance between the electrically conductive surfaces becomes more significant for effective sealing. In other words, the chances of the two electrically conductive surfaces touching during activation increases as the tissue thickness and the vessels become smaller.

Typically, and particularly with respect to endoscopic electrosurgical procedures, once a vessel is sealed, the surgeon has to remove the sealing instrument from the operative site, substitute a new instrument through the cannula and accurately sever the vessel along the newly formed tissue seal. This additional step may be both time consuming (particularly when sealing a significant number of vessels) and may contribute to imprecise separation of the tissue along the sealing line due to the misalignment or misplacement of the severing instrument along the center of the tissue seal.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to an end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing and cutting vessels and/or tissue. An end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing vessels and cutting vessels includes a pair of opposing first and second jaw members which are movable relative to one another from a first spaced apart position to a second position for grasping tissue therebetween. Each jaw member includes an electrically conductive tissue contacting surface connected to an electrosurgical energy source. At least one of the jaw members includes an electrically conductive cutting element disposed within an insulator defined in the jaw member. A rigid structural support is included which is configured to support the electrically conductive tissue sealing surface and includes at least one flow channel defined therein.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure a layer of insulative material is included which is disposed between the electrically conductive tissue sealing surface and the rigid structural support. The rigid structural support or structural backing may include perforations. The insulator may be located between the perforations of the structural backing.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure the electrically conductive cutting element may include at least one mechanically interfacing surface configured to mate with the insulative material to retain the electrically conductive cutting element within the insulator.

In one embodiment according to the present disclosure the electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces are photochemically etched or formed from a stamping process. At least one of the insulators may be configured to at least partially extend to a position which is at least substantially flush with the cutting element.

A second electrically conductive cutting element may be provided which is disposed within the insulator of the second jaw member. The second electrically conductive cutting element may be disposed in generally opposing relation to the first electrically conductive cutting element.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure an end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing and cutting vessels and/or tissue is provided. The assembly includes a pair of opposing first and second jaw members at least one of which being movable relative to the other from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. Each jaw member includes a pair of spaced apart, electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces extending along a length thereof, each tissue sealing surface being adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surfaces are capable of conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a seal. An insulator is disposed between each pair of electrically conductive sealing surfaces. The first jaw member includes an electrically conductive cutting element disposed within the insulator of the first jaw member, the electrically conductive cutting element disposed in general vertical registration to the insulator on the second jaw member. The assembly includes at least one tissue tensioning mechanism configured to provide tension to tissue held between jaw members.

In another embodiment of the present disclosure a slot defined within the second jaw member is included, the slot configured to receive the electrically conductive cutting element and create tension upon tissue.

In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure the electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces are disposed in an angular relationship relative to one another, the electrically conductive cutting element may be constructed of an expandable material (e.g., a shape memory alloy such as Nitinol) or may include a spring-like device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the subject instrument are described herein with reference to the drawings wherein:

FIG. 1A is a right, perspective view of an endoscopic bipolar forceps having a housing, a shaft and a pair of jaw members affixed to a distal end thereof, the jaw members including an electrode assembly disposed therebetween;

FIG. 1B is a left, perspective view of an open bipolar forceps showing a pair of first and second shafts each having a jaw member affixed to a distal end thereof with an electrode assembly disposed therebetween;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the area of detail of FIG. 1B

FIGS. 3A-3F are enlarged, schematic end views showing a variety of different electrode assemblies according to the present disclosure with electrical potentials identified for electrical cutting;

FIG. 4A is an enlarged, schematic end view showing one electrode assembly configuration with tissue disposed between the jaw members;

FIG. 4B is a schematic end view showing the area of detail of FIG. 4A;

FIGS. 4C-4J are enlarged, schematic end views showing various configurations for an upper jaw member to promote electrical cutting;

FIG. 5 is a schematic end view showing an alternate configuration of an electrode assembly according to the present disclosure with the electrical potentials for both the sealing phase and the cutting phase identified;

FIGS. 6A-6D are enlarged, schematic end views showing alternate configurations of the electrode assembly according to the present disclosure with the electrical potentials for both the sealing mode and the cutting mode identified;

FIGS. 7A-7E are enlarged, schematic end views showing various configurations for the lower jaw member to promote electrical cutting;

FIGS. 8A-8D are enlarged, schematic end views showing alternate configurations of the electrode assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIGS. 8E-8F are enlarged, schematic end views showing alternate configurations of the electrode assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIGS. 9A-9B are enlarged views showing alternate configurations of electrodes having a curved jaw;

FIGS. 10A-10B are enlarged views showing alternate configurations of electrodes having a curved jaw; and

FIGS. 11A-11C are enlarged views showing alternate configurations of electrodes of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purposes herein, vessel/tissue cutting or vessel/tissue division is believed to occur when heating of the vessel/tissue leads to expansion of intracellular and/or extra-cellular fluid, which may be accompanied by cellular vaporization, desiccation, fragmentation, collapse and/or shrinkage along a so-called “cut zone” in the vessel/tissue. By focusing the electrosurgical energy and heating in the cut zone, the cellular reactions are localized creating a fissure. Localization is achieved by regulating the vessel/tissue condition and energy delivery, which may be controlled by utilizing one or more of the various geometrical electrode and insulator configurations described herein. The cut process may also be controlled by utilizing a generator and feedback algorithm (and one or more of the hereindescribed geometrical configurations of the electrode and insulator assemblies), which increases the localization and maximizes the so-called “cutting effect”.

For example, the below described factors may contribute and/or enhance vessel/tissue division using electrosurgical energy. Each of the factors described below may be employed individually or in any combination to achieve a desired cutting effect. For the purposes herein the term “cut effect” or “cutting effect” refers to the actual division of tissue by one or more of the electrical or electromechanical methods or mechanisms described below. The term “cutting zone” or “cut zone” refers to the region of vessel/tissue where cutting will take place. The term “cutting process” refers to steps that are implemented before, during and/or after vessel/tissue division that tend to influence the vessel/tissue as part of achieving the cut effect.

For the purposes herein the terms “tissue” and “vessel” may be used interchangeably since it is believed that the present disclosure may be employed to seal and cut tissue or seal and cut vessels utilizing the same inventive principles described herein.

It is believed that the following factors either alone or in combination, play an important role in dividing tissue:

-   -   Localizing or focusing electrosurgical energy in the cut zone         during the cutting process while minimizing energy effects to         surrounding tissues;     -   Focusing the power density in the cut zone during the cutting         process;     -   Creating an area of increased temperature in the cut zone during         the cutting process (e.g., heating that occurs within the tissue         or heating the tissue directly with a heat source);     -   Pulsing the energy delivery to influence the tissue in or around         the cut zone. “Pulsing” involves as a combination of an “on”         time and “off” time during which the energy is applied and then         removed repeatedly at any number of intervals for any amount of         time. The pulse “on” and “off” time may vary between pulses. The         pulse “on” typically refers to a state of higher power delivery         and pulse “off” typically refers to a state of lower power         delivery;     -   Spiking the energy delivery creates a momentary condition of         high energy application with an intent to influence the tissue         in or around the cut zone during the cut process. The momentary         condition may be varied to create periods of high energy         application;     -   Conditioning the tissue before or during the cutting process to         create more favorable tissue conditions for cutting. This         includes tissue pre-heating before the cutting processes and         tissue rehydration during the cutting process;     -   Controlling the tissue volume in or around the cut zone to         create more favorable conditions for tissue cutting;     -   Controlling energy and power delivery to allow vaporization to         enhance and or contribute to the cutting process. For example,         controlling the energy delivery to vaporize both intracellular         and/or extracellular fluids and/or other cellular materials and         foreign fluids within the cut zone;     -   Fragmenting the tissue or cellular material during the cutting         process to enhance tissue division in the cut zone;     -   Melting or collapsing the tissue or cellular material during the         cutting process to enhance tissue division in the cut zone. For         example, melting the tissue to create internal stress within the         tissue to induce tissue tearing;     -   Controlling tissue temperature, arcing, power density and/or         current density during the cutting process to enhance tissue         division in the cut zone;     -   Applying various mechanical elements to the tissue, such as         pressure, tension and/or stress (either internally or         externally) to enhance the cutting process;     -   Utilizing various other tissue treatments before or during the         cutting process to enhance tissue cutting, e.g., tissue sealing,         cauterization and/or coagulation; and     -   Movement/motion of one or more electrically charged or         insulative members.

Many of the electrode assemblies described herein employ one or more of the above-identified factors for enhancing tissue division. For example, many of the electrode assemblies described herein utilize various geometrical configurations of electrodes, cutting elements, insulators, partially conductive materials and semiconductors to produce or enhance the cutting effect. In addition, by controlling or regulating the electrosurgical energy from the generator in any of the ways described above, tissue cutting may be initiated, enhanced or facilitated within the tissue cutting zone. For example, the geometrical configuration of the electrodes and insulators may be configured to produce a so-called “cut effect”, which may be directly related to the amount of vaporization or fragmentation at a point in the tissue or the power density, temperature density and/or mechanical stress applied to a point in the tissue. The geometry of the electrodes may be configured such that the surface area ratios between the electrical poles focus electrical energy at the tissue. Moreover, the geometrical configurations of the electrodes and insulators may be designed such that they act like electrical (or thermal) sinks or insulators to influence the heat effect within and around the tissue during the sealing or cutting processes.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, FIG. 1A depicts a bipolar forceps 10 for use in connection with endoscopic surgical procedures and FIG. 1B depicts an open forceps 100 contemplated for use in connection with traditional open surgical procedures. For the purposes herein, either an endoscopic instrument or an open instrument may be utilized with the electrode assembly described herein. Different electrical and mechanical connections and considerations may apply to each particular type of instrument; however, the novel aspects with respect to the electrode assembly and its operating characteristics remain generally consistent with respect to both the open or endoscopic designs.

FIG. 1A shows a bipolar forceps 10 for use with various endoscopic surgical procedures and generally includes a housing 20, a handle assembly 30, a rotating assembly 80, a switch assembly 70 and an electrode assembly 105 having opposing jaw members 110 and 120 that mutually cooperate to grasp, seal and divide tubular vessels and vascular tissue. More particularly, forceps 10 includes a shaft 12 that has a distal end 16 dimensioned to mechanically engage the electrode assembly 105 and a proximal end 14 that mechanically engages the housing 20. The shaft 12 may include one or more known mechanically engaging components that are designed to securely receive and engage the electrode assembly 105 such that the jaw members 110 and 120 are pivotable relative to one another to engage and grasp tissue therebetween.

The proximal end 14 of shaft 12 mechanically engages the rotating assembly 80 (not shown) to facilitate rotation of the electrode assembly 105. In the drawings and in the descriptions that follow, the term “proximal”, as is traditional, will refer to the end of the forceps 10 that is closer to the user, while the term “distal” will refer to the end that is further from the user. Details relating to the mechanically cooperating components of the shaft 12 and the rotating assembly 80 are described in commonly-owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/460,926 entitled “VESSEL SEALER AND DIVIDER FOR USE WITH SMALL TROCARS AND CANNULAS” filed on Jun. 13, 2003 the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

Handle assembly 30 includes a fixed handle 50 and a movable handle 40. Fixed handle 50 is integrally associated with housing 20 and handle 40 is movable relative to fixed handle 50 to actuate the opposing jaw members 110 and 120 of the electrode assembly 105 as explained in more detail below. Movable handle 40 and switch assembly 70 are of unitary construction and are operatively connected to the housing 20 and the fixed handle 50 during the assembly process. Housing 20 is constructed from two component halves 20 a and 20 b, which are assembled about the proximal end of shaft 12 during assembly. Switch assembly is configured to selectively provide electrical energy to the electrode assembly 105.

As mentioned above, electrode assembly 105 is attached to the distal end 16 of shaft 12 and includes the opposing jaw members 110 and 120. Movable handle 40 of handle assembly 30 imparts movement of the jaw members 110 and 120 from an open position wherein the jaw members 110 and 120 are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another, to a clamping or closed position wherein the jaw members 110 and 120 cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween.

Referring now to FIG. 1B, an open forceps 100 includes a pair of elongated shaft portions 112 a and 112 b each having a proximal end 114 a and 114 b, respectively, and a distal end 116 a and 116 b, respectively. The forceps 100 includes jaw members 120 and 110 that attach to distal ends 116 a and 116 b of shafts 112 a and 112 b, respectively. The jaw members 110 and 120 are connected about pivot pin 119, which allows the jaw members 110 and 120 to pivot relative to one another from the first to second positions for treating tissue. The electrode assembly 105 is connected to opposing jaw members 110 and 120 and may include electrical connections through or around the pivot pin 119. Examples of various electrical connections to the jaw members are shown in commonly-owned U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/474,170, 10/116,824, 10/284,562 10/472,295, 10/116,944, 10/179,863 and 10/369,894, the contents of all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

Each shaft 112 a and 112 b includes a handle 117 a and 117 b disposed at the proximal end 114 a and 114 b thereof that each define a finger hole 118 a and 118 b, respectively, therethrough for receiving a finger of the user. As can be appreciated, finger holes 118 a and 118 b facilitate movement of the shafts 112 a and 112 b relative to one another, which, in turn, pivot the jaw members 110 and 120 from the open position wherein the jaw members 110 and 120 are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to the clamping or closed position wherein the jaw members 110 and 120 cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. A ratchet 130 may be included for selectively locking the jaw members 110 and 120 relative to one another at various positions during pivoting.

More particularly, the ratchet 130 includes a first mechanical interface 130 a associated with shaft 112 a and a second mating mechanical interface associated with shaft 112 b. Each position associated with the cooperating ratchet interfaces 130 a and 130 b holds a specific, i.e., constant, strain energy in the shaft members 112 a and 112 b, which, in turn, transmits a specific closing force to the jaw members 110 and 120. The ratchet 130 may include graduations or other visual markings that enable the user to easily and quickly ascertain and control the amount of closure force desired between the jaw members 110 and 120.

As best seen in FIG. 1B, forceps 100 also includes an electrical interface or plug 200 that connects the forceps 100 to a source of electrosurgical energy, e.g., an electrosurgical generator (not explicitly shown). Plug 200 includes at least two prong members 202 a and 202 b that are dimensioned to mechanically and electrically connect the forceps 100 to the electrosurgical generator 500 (See FIG. 1A). An electrical cable 210 extends from the plug 200 and securely connects the cable 210 to the forceps 100. Cable 210 is internally divided within the shaft 112 b to transmit electrosurgical energy through various electrical feed paths to the electrode assembly 105.

One of the shafts, e.g. 112 b, includes a proximal shaft connector/flange 119 that is designed to connect the forceps 100 to a source of electrosurgical energy such as an electrosurgical generator 500. More particularly, flange 119 mechanically secures electrosurgical cable 210 to the forceps 100 such that the user may selectively apply electrosurgical energy as needed.

As best shown in the schematic illustration of FIG. 2, the jaw members 110 and 120 of both the endoscopic version of FIG. 1A and the open version of FIG. 1B are generally symmetrical and include similar component features that cooperate to permit facile rotation about pivot 19, 119 to effect the grasping and sealing of tissue. Each jaw member 110 and 120 includes an electrically conductive tissue contacting surface 112 and 122, respectively, which cooperate to engage the tissue during sealing and cutting. At least one of the jaw members, e.g., jaw member 120, includes a electrically energizable cutting element 127 disposed therein, which is explained in detail below. Together, and as shown in the various figure drawings described hereafter, the electrode assembly 105 includes the combination of the sealing electrodes 112 and 122 and the cutting element(s) 127.

The various electrical connections of the electrode assembly 105 are configured to provide electrical continuity to the tissue contacting surfaces 110 and 120 and the cutting element(s) 127 through the electrode assembly 105. For example, cable lead 210 may be configured to include three different leads, namely, leads 207, 208 and 209, which carry different electrical potentials. The cable leads 207, 208 and 209 are fed through shaft 112 b and connect to various electrical connectors (not shown) disposed within the proximal end of the jaw member 110, which ultimately connect to the electrically conductive sealing surfaces 112 and 122 and cutting element(s) 127. As can be appreciated, the electrical connections may be permanently soldered to the shaft 112 b during the assembly process of a disposable instrument or, alternatively, selectively removable for use with a reposable instrument. Commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/474,170, 10/116,824 and 10/284,562 all disclose various types of electrical connections that may be made to the jaw members 110 and 120 through the shaft 112 b the contents of all of which being incorporated by reference herein. In addition and with respect to the types of electrical connections which may be made to the jaw members 110 and 120 for endoscopic purposes, commonly-owned U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 10/472,295, 10/116,944, 10/179,863 and 10/369,894 all disclose other types of electrical connections which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

The various electrical connections from lead 210 are typically dielectrically insulated from one another to allow selective and independent activation of either the tissue contacting surfaces 112 and 122 or the cutting element 127 as explained in more detail below. Alternatively, the electrode assembly 105 may include a single connector that includes an internal switch (not shown) to allow selective and independent activation of the tissue contacting surfaces 112, 122 and the cutting element 127. The leads 207, 208 and 209 (and/or conductive pathways) do not encumber the movement of the jaw members 110 and 120 relative to one another during the manipulation and grasping of tissue. Likewise, the movement of the jaw members 110 and 120 do not unnecessarily strain the lead connections.

As best seen in FIGS. 2-3F, various electrical configurations of the electrode assembly 105 are shown that are designed to effectively seal and cut tissue disposed between the sealing surfaces 112 and 122 and the cutting elements 127 of the opposing jaw members 110 and 120, respectively. More particularly, and with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3A, jaw members 110 and 120 include conductive tissue contacting surfaces 112 and 122, respectively, disposed along substantially the entire longitudinal length thereof (e.g., extending substantially from the proximal to distal end of the respective jaw member 110 and 120). Tissue contacting surfaces 112 and 122 may be attached to the jaw member 110, 120 by stamping, by overmolding, by casting, by overmolding a casting, by coating a casting, by overmolding a stamped electrically conductive sealing plate and/or by overmolding a metal injection molded seal plate or in other suitable ways. All of these manufacturing techniques may be employed to produce jaw member 110 and 120 having an electrically conductive tissue contacting surface 112 and 122 disposed thereon for contacting and treating tissue.

With respect to FIG. 3A, the jaw members 110 and 120 both include an insulator or insulative material 113 and 123, respectively, disposed between each pair of electrically conductive sealing surfaces on each jaw member 110 and 120, i.e., between pairs 112 a and 112 b and between pairs 122 a and 122 b. Each insulator 113 and 123 is generally centered between its respective tissue contacting surface 112 a, 112 b and 122 a, 122 b along substantially the entire length of the respective jaw member 110 and 120 such that the two insulators 113 and 123 generally oppose one another.

One or both of the insulators 113, 123 may be made from a ceramic material due to its hardness and inherent ability to withstand high temperature fluctuations. Alternatively, one or both of the insulators 113, 123 may be made from a material having a high Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) having a value in the range of about 300 to about 600 volts. Examples of high CTI materials include nylons and syndiotactic polystyrenes. Other suitable materials may also be utilized either alone or in combination, e.g., Nylons, Syndiotactic-polystryrene (SPS), Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), Polycarbonate (PC), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyphthalamide (PPA), Polymide, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyamide-imide (PAI), Acrylic (PMMA), Polystyrene (PS and HIPS), Polyether Sulfone (PES), Aliphatic Polyketone, Acetal (POM) Copolymer, Polyurethane (PU and TPU), Nylon with Polyphenylene-oxide dispersion and Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate.

At least one jaw member 110 and/or 120 includes an electrically conductive cutting element 127 disposed substantially within or disposed on the insulator 113, 123. As described in detail below, the cutting element 127 (in many of the embodiments described hereinafter) plays a dual role during the sealing and cutting processes, namely: 1) to provide the necessary gap distance between conductive surfaces 112 a, 112 b and 122 a, 122 b during the sealing process; and 2) to electrically energize the tissue along the previously formed tissue seal to cut the tissue along the seal. With respect to FIG. 3A, the cutting elements 127 a, 127 b are electrically conductive; however, one or both of the cutting elements 127 a, 127 b may be made from an insulative material with a conductive coating disposed thereon or one (or both) of the cutting elements may be non-conductive (see, e.g., FIG. 4A). The distance between the cutting element(s) 127 a and the opposing cutting element 127 b (or the opposing return electrode in some cases) may be disposed within the range of about 0.000 inches to about 0.040 inches to optimize the cutting effect.

The general characteristics of the jaw members 110 and 120 and the electrode assembly 105 will initially be described with respect to FIG. 3A while the changes to the other envisioned embodiments disclosed herein will become apparent during the description of each individual embodiment. Moreover, all of the following figures show the various electrical configurations and polarities during the cutting phase only. During the so called “sealing phase”, the jaw members 110 and 120 are closed about tissue and the cutting elements 127 and 127 b may form the requisite gap between the opposing sealing surfaces 112 a, 122 a and 112 b, 122 b. During activation of the sealing phase, the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b are not necessarily energized such that the majority of the current is concentrated between opposing sealing surfaces, 112 a and 122 a and 112 b and 122 b, to effectively seal the tissue. Stop members 1160 a and 1160 b may also be employed to regulate the gap distance between the sealing surfaces in lieu of the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b. The stop members 1160 a and 1160 b may be disposed on the sealing surfaces 1112 a, 1122 a and 1112 b, 1122 b (see FIG. 4E), adjacent the sealing surfaces 1112 a, 1122 a and 1112 b, 1122 b or on the insulator(s) 1113, 1123.

The cutting elements 127 a and 127 b are configured to extend from their respective insulators 113 and 123, respectively, and extend beyond the tissue contacting surfaces 112 a, 112 b and 122 a and 122 b such that the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b act as stop members (i.e., creates a gap distance “G” (See FIG. 3A) between opposing conductive sealing surfaces 112 a, 122 a and 112 b, 122 b), which as mentioned above promotes accurate, consistent and effective tissue sealing. As can be appreciated, the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b also prevent the opposing tissue contacting surfaces 112 a, 122 a and 112 b, 122 b from touching, which eliminates the chances of the forceps 10, 100 shorting during the sealing process.

As mentioned above, two mechanical factors play an important role in determining the resulting thickness of the sealed tissue and effectiveness of a tissue seal, i.e., the pressure applied between opposing jaw members 110 and 120 and the gap distance “G” between the opposing tissue contacting surfaces 112 a, 122 a and 112 b, 122 b during the sealing process. With particular respect to vessels, the cutting element 127 (or cutting elements 127 a and 127 b) extends beyond the tissue contacting surfaces 112 a, 112 b and/or 122 a, 122 b to yield a consistent and accurate gap distance “G” during sealing within the range of about 0.001 inches to about 0.006 inches and, more preferably, within the range of about 0.002 inches and about 0.003 inches. Other gap ranges may be preferable with other tissue types, such as bowel or large vascular structures. As can be appreciated, when utilizing one cutting element (as with some of the disclosed embodiments herein), e.g., 127, the cutting element 127 would be configured to extend beyond the sealing surfaces 112 a, 112 b and 122 a, 122 b to yield a gap distance within the above working range. When two opposing cutting elements are utilized, e.g., 127 a and 127 b, the combination of these cutting elements 127 a and 127 b yield a gap distance within the above working range during the sealing process.

With respect to FIG. 3A, the conductive cutting elements 127 a and 127 b are oriented in opposing, vertical registration within respective insulators 113 and 123 of jaw members 110 and 120. Cutting elements 127 a and 127 b may be substantially dull so as to not inhibit the sealing process (e.g., premature cutting) during the sealing phase of the electrosurgical activation. In other words, the surgeon is free to manipulate, grasp and clamp the tissue for sealing purposes without the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b mechanically cutting into the tissue. Moreover, in this instance, tissue cutting can only be achieved through either: 1) a combination of mechanically clamping the tissue between the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b and applying electrosurgical energy from the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b, through the tissue and to the return electrodes, i.e., the electrically conductive tissue contacting surfaces 112 b and 122 b as shown in FIG. 3A; or 2) applying electrosurgical energy from the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b through the tissue and to the return tissue contacting surfaces 112 b and 122 b.

The geometrical configuration of the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b may play an important role in determining the overall effectiveness of the tissue cut. For example, the power density and/or current concentration around the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b is based upon the particular geometrical configuration of the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b and the cutting elements' 127 a and 127 b proximity to the return electrodes, i.e., tissue contacting surfaces 112 b and 122 b. Certain geometries of the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b may create higher areas of power density than other geometries. Moreover, the spacing of the return electrodes 112 b and 122 b to these current concentrations affects the electrical fields through the tissue. Therefore, by configuring the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b and the respective insulators 113 and 123 within close proximity to one another, the electrical power density remains high, which is ideal for cutting and the instrument will not short due to accidental contact between conductive surfaces. The relative size of the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b and/or the size of the insulator 113 and 123 may be selectively altered depending upon a particular or desired purpose to produce a particular surgical effect.

In addition, the cutting element 127 a (and/or 127 b) may be independently activated by the surgeon or automatically activated by the Generator once sealing is complete. A safety algorithm may be employed to assure that an accurate and complete tissue seal is formed before cutting. An audible or visual indicator (not shown) may be employed to assure the surgeon that an accurate seal has been formed and the surgeon may be required to activate a trigger (or deactivate a safety) before cutting. For example, a smart sensor or feedback algorithm may be employed to determine seal quality prior to cutting. The smart sensor or feedback loop may also be configured to automatically switch electrosurgical energy to the cutting element 127 a (and/or 127 b) once the smart sensor determines that the tissue is properly sealed. The electrical configuration of the electrically conductive sealing surfaces 112 a, 112 b and 122 a, 122 b may also be automatically or manually altered during the sealing and cutting processes to effect accurate and consistent tissue sealing and cutting.

Turning now to the embodiments of the electrode assembly 105, as disclosed herein, which show the various polarities during the tissue cutting phase, FIG. 3A as mentioned above includes first and second jaw members 110 and 120 having an electrode assembly 105 disposed thereon. More particularly, the electrode assembly 105 includes first electrically conductive sealing surfaces 112 a and 112 b each disposed in opposing registration with second electrically conductive sealing surfaces 122 a and 122 b on jaw members 110 and 120, respectively. Insulator 113 electrically isolates sealing surfaces 112 a and 112 b from one another allowing selective independent activation of the sealing surfaces 112 a and 112 b. Insulator 123 separates sealing surfaces 122 a and 122 b from one another in a similar manner thereby allowing selective activation of sealing surfaces 122 a and 122 b.

Each insulator 113 and 123 is set back a predetermined distance between the sealing surfaces 112 a, 112 b and 122 a, 122 b to define a recess 149 a, 149 b and 159 a, 159 b, respectively, which, as mentioned above, affects the overall power densities between the electrically activated surfaces during both the sealing and cutting phases. Cutting element 127 a is disposed within and/or deposited on insulator 113 and extends inwardly therefrom to extend beyond the sealing surfaces 112 a, 112 b by a predetermined distance. In the embodiments wherein only one cutting element, e.g., 127 a, is shown, the cutting element 127 a extends beyond the sealing surfaces 112 a, 112 b and 122 a and 122 b to define the aforementioned gap range between the opposing sealing surfaces 112 a, 122 a and 112 b and 122 b. When two (or more) cutting elements 127 a and 127 b are employed (e.g., at least one disposed within each insulator 113 and 123) the combination of the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b yield the desired gap distance within the working gap range.

During sealing, the opposing sealing surfaces 112 a, 122 a and 112 b, 122 b are activated to seal the tissue disposed therebetween to create two tissue seals on either side of the insulators 113 and 123. During the cutting phase, the cutting elements 127 a and 127 b are energized with a first electrical potential “+” and the right opposing sealing surfaces 112 b and 122 b are energized with a second electrical potential “−”. This creates a concentrated electrical path between the potentials “+” and “−” through the tissue to cut the tissue between the previously formed tissue seals. Once the tissue is cut, the jaw members 110 and 120 are opened to release the two tissue halves.

FIG. 3B discloses another embodiment according to the present disclosure that includes similar elements as described above with respect to FIG. 3A, namely, sealing surfaces 312 a, 312 b and 322 a, 322 b, insulators 313 and 323 and cutting elements 327 a and 327 b with the exception that the left side of each insulator 313 and 323 is extended beyond sealing surfaces 312 a and 322 a to a position that is flush with the cutting elements 327 a and 327 b. The right side of each insulator 313 and 323 is set back from sealing surfaces 312 a and 312 b, respectively. Configuring the electrode assembly 305 in this fashion may reduce stray current concentrations between electrically conductive surfaces 312 a, 312 b and 322 a, 322 b and cutting elements 327 a and 327 b especially during the cutting phase.

FIG. 3C discloses yet another embodiment according to the present disclosure and includes similar elements as above, namely, sealing surfaces 412 a, 412 b and 422 a, 422 b, insulators 413 and 423 and cutting elements 327 a and 327 b. With this particular embodiment, during the cutting phase, both sets of opposing sealing surfaces 412 a, 422 a and 412 b, 422 b are energized with the second electrical potential “−” and the cutting elements 427 a and 427 b are energized to the first electrical potential “+”. It is believed that this electrode assembly 405 may create concentrated electrical paths between the potentials “+” and “−” through the tissue to cut the tissue between the previously formed tissue seals.

FIG. 3D shows an electrode assembly 505 configuration similar to FIG. 3B with a similar electrical configuration to the embodiment of FIG. 3C. The electrode assembly 505 includes and includes similar components as described above, namely, sealing surfaces 512 a, 512 b and 522 a, 522 b, insulators 513 and 523 and cutting elements 527 a and 527 b. The opposing sealing electrodes 512 a, 522 b and 512 a, 522 b are energized to the second electrical potential “−” during the cutting phase, which as described above is believed to enhance tissue cutting. With particular embodiments like FIGS. 3C and 3D, it may be easier to manufacture the electrode assembly 505 such that all of the sealing surfaces 512 a, 512 b and 522 a, 522 b are energized to the same electrical potential rather than employ complicated switching algorithms and/or circuitry to energize only select sealing surfaces like FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 3E shows yet another embodiment of the electrode assembly 605 that includes opposing sealing surfaces 612 a, 622 a and 612 b, 622 b, cutting element 627 and insulators 613 and 623. By this particular embodiment, the electrode assembly 605 only includes one cutting element 627 disposed within insulator 613 for cutting tissue. The cutting element 627 is disposed opposite insulator 623, which provides a dual function during activation of the electrode assembly 605: 1) provides a uniform gap between sealing surfaces 612 a, 622 a and 612 b, 622 b during the sealing phase; and 2) prevents the electrode assembly 605 from shorting during the sealing and cutting phases. During activation, the cutting element 627 is energized to a first potential “+” and the opposing sealing surfaces 612 a, 622 a and 612 b, 622 b are energized to a second electrical potential “−” which creates an area of high power density between the two previously formed tissue seals and cuts the tissue.

FIG. 3F shows yet another alternate embodiment of the electrode assembly 705 that includes similar elements as described above, namely, sealing surfaces 712 a, 712 b and 722 a, 722 b, cutting elements 727 a and 727 b and insulators 713 and 723. During activation, only three of the four sealing surfaces are energized to the second potential “−”, e.g., sealing surfaces 712 a, 712 b and 722 b while the cutting elements 727 a and 727 b are energized to the first potential “+”.

FIGS. 4A and 4B shows yet another embodiment of the electrode assembly 805 according to the present disclosure showing tissue disposed between the two jaw members 810 and 820 prior to activation of the sealing surfaces 812 a, 812 b and 822 a, 822 b. With this particular embodiment, the insulators 813 and 823 are configured to have opposing triangular like cross sections, which essentially “pinch” the tissue between the insulators 813 and 823 when tissue is grasped between jaw members 810 and 820. During sealing, energy is applied to the tissue through the opposing sealing plates 812 a, 822 a and 812 b, 822 b to effect two tissue seals on either side of the insulators 813 and 823. During the cutting phase, sealing electrodes 812 a and 822 a are energized to a first potential “+” and sealing plates 812 b and 822 b are energized to the second electrical potential “−” such that energy flows in the direction of the indicated arrow “A”. In other words, it is believed that the pinching of the tissue tends to control or direct the energy concentration to specific tissue areas to effect tissue cutting.

Turning now to FIGS. 4C-4J, various geometrical configurations for the upper jaw member 910 for the electrode assembly 905 which may be utilized with a symmetrical or asymmetrical lower jaw member (not shown) to effectively seal and subsequently cut tissue. Using the various geometries of the jaw members tends to “pinch” the tissue during sealing prior to separation, which may enhance the tissue cutting process especially when the pinched tissue areas are subject to high power densities. For the purposes herein, the pinch may be described as the area of smallest tissue volume anywhere between the active tissue poles. Typically, the pinched tissue area is associated with high pressure. Many of the below described jaw configurations illustrate the pinch concept and are envisioned to utilize a variety of polarity configurations to enhance or facilitate cutting. For the purposes of clarification, only the polarity associated with the cutting phase is depicted on each figure.

Moreover, any combination of electrical potential as hereinbefore described may be utilized with the various jaw members (and each jaw member's opposing jaw member) to effectively seal tissue during a first electrical phase and cut tissue during a subsequent electrical phase. As such, the illustrated jaw members are labeled with a first electrical potential “+”; however, the lower jaw member inclusive of the sealing surfaces and cutting elements (which may or may not be a mirror image of the upper jaw member) may be energized with any combination of first and second electrical potential(s) (or other electrical potentials) to effectively seal and subsequently cut tissue disposed between the jaw members.

FIG. 4C shows one particular upper jaw member 910 that includes a sealing surface 912 having a U-shaped recess 921 defined therein for housing insulator 913. A cutting element 927 is disposed within insulator 913 and is dimensioned to extend beyond the sealing surface 912. The cutting element 927 may be an electrode or may be made from a partially conductive material. FIG. 4D shows a jaw member 1010 that forms part of an electrode assembly 1005 that includes two sealing surfaces 1012 a and 1012 b with an insulator 1013 disposed therebetween. The insulator 1013 includes a cutting element 1027 disposed therein that extends beyond the sealing surfaces 1012 a and 1012 b much like the embodiments described above with respect to FIGS. 3A-3F. Again, the cutting element 1027 may be an electrode or made from a semi-conductor material. However, and as mentioned above, a different geometrically-shaped jaw member may be disposed opposite jaw member 1010 with different electrical potentials to produce a particular sealing and cutting effect.

FIGS. 4E-4J show various geometrical configurations of at least one jaw member that is configured to both seal tissue during a first sealing phase and cut tissue during a subsequent cutting phase. In each instance, the particular geometrical configuration of the insulator is designed to focus current into high areas of power density to produce a cutting effect and/or reduce the likelihood of current straying to adjacent tissue, which may ultimately damage the adjacent tissue structures.

For example, FIG. 4E shows a jaw member 1110 that may be utilized with the electrode assembly 1105 which includes sealing surfaces 1112 a and 1112 b that are separated by a partially conductive material 1113. A mirror-like jaw member 1120 is shown in opposition to jaw member 1110 and includes similar elements, namely, sealing surfaces 1122 a and 1122 b and partially conductive material 1123. In this particular embodiment, the partially conductive materials 1113 and 1123 are generally rounded to include and apexes 1151 a and 1151 b, respectively, which extend beyond the sealing surfaces 1112 a, 1112 b and 1122 a, 1122 b. The partially conductive materials 1113 and 1123 are typically made from a material that have conductive properties that over time generate areas of high power density at the apexes 1151 a and 1151 b to cut tissue disposed thereunder. A series of stop members 1160 a and 1160 may be disposed on surfaces 1112 a and 1122 b and prevent the apexes 1151 a and 1151 b from touching and shorting.

During the sealing phase (not shown) the partially conductive materials 1113 and 1123 are not energized and will generally act more as insulating materials since by its nature it is only semi-conductive and are not as conductive as sealing surfaces 1112 a, 1112 b and 1122 a, 1122 b. In other words, the current may be supplied to the sealing plates 1112 a, 1112 b and 1122 a, 1122 b and not directly to the partially conductive materials 1113 and 1123, thereby producing the majority of the electrical effect between the opposing sealing plates 1112 a, 1122 a and 1112 b, 1122 b of the jaw members 1110 and 1120. During the cutting phase (as shown), an electrical potential is supplied directly to the partially conductive materials 1113 and 1123, which is believed will make them more conductive and which produce areas of high power density in the vicinity of the apexes 1151 a and 1151 b to cut the tissue.

For example, partially conductive material 1113 is supplied with a first potential and partially conductive material 1123 is supplied with a second potential to facilitate cutting. Jaw member 1120 may also be configured to include a different geometrical configuration from jaw member 1110 to produce a particular cutting effect. Moreover, an insulator (not shown) may be disposed between one or both of the partially conductive materials 1113 and 1123 and its respective sealing surface to reduce electrical conduction or heat transfer between or across these elements.

FIG. 4F shows a similar electrode assembly 1205 having sealing surfaces 1212 a and 1212 b that are separated by a partially conductive material 1213 and wherein the partially conductive material 1213 is generally rounded but does not extend beyond the sealing surfaces 1212 a and 1212 b. The partially conductive material 1213 may be made from a material such as those identified above that produces an area of high power density at the apex 1251 to cut tissue disposed thereunder during the cutting phase. Again, the opposite jaw member (not shown) may be configured as a mirror image of the jaw member 1210 or may include a different geometrical configuration.

FIG. 4G shows another geometric configuration of a jaw member 1310 that includes sealing surfaces 1312 a and 1312 b separated by a partially conductive material 1313 wherein the partially conductive material is set back between the sealing surface 1312 a and 1312 b to define a recess 1349 therein. FIG. 4H shows yet another geometric configuration of a jaw member 1410 which forms part of an electrode assembly 1405 and that includes sealing surface 1412 and a partially conductive material 1413. As can be appreciated this particular arrangement does not include a second sealing surface on the upper jaw member 1410 but instead the partially conductive material 1413 includes a notch-like recess 1449 defined therein that has a cutting tip 1451, which extends beyond sealing surface 1412. The cutting tip 1451 extends beyond the sealing surface 1412 enough to both maintain the necessary gap distance during the sealing phase and to eventually facilitate tissue cutting during the cutting phase by producing an area of high power density at the tip 1451. Again, the opposite jaw member (not shown) may be configured as a mirror image of the jaw member 1410 or may include a different geometrical configuration.

FIG. 4I includes yet another geometric configuration of the upper jaw member 1510 that forms part of an electrode assembly 1505 and that includes sealing surfaces 1512 a and 1512 b that are separated by an insulator 1513. The insulator 1513 includes a generally rectilinear-shaped semi-conductive cutting element 1527 disposed therein, which extends beyond the sealing surfaces 1512 a and 1512 b. During the cutting phase, the semi-conductive cutting element 1527 is energized by a first potential “+” and the sealing plates 1512 a, 1512 b is energized to a second potential “−”. The insulator 1513 isolates the potentials between the partially conductive material 1527 and the sealing surfaces 1512 a and 1512 b during activation.

FIG. 4J shows still yet another geometric configuration showing a jaw member 1610 for an electrode assembly 1605 that is similar to FIG. 4C above and includes a C-shaped sealing plate 1612 having a recess 1621 defined therein for housing an insulator 1613. The insulator 1613 includes a semi-conductive cutting element 1627 housed therein for cutting tissue. During the cutting phase, the semi-conductive cutting element 1627 is energized to a first potential “+” and the sealing plate 1612 is energized to a second potential “−” to effect tissue cutting. Again, the lower or second jaw member (not shown) may include the same geometric configuration to enhance the cutting process.

FIG. 5 shows a schematically-illustrated example of electrical circuitry for an electrode assembly 1905, which may be utilized to initially seal tissue between the sealing plates and subsequently cut tissue once the tissue seal(s) are formed. More particularly, jaw member 1910 includes insulative housing 1916 that is dimensioned to house conductive sealing plates 1912 a and 1912 b with an insulator or partially conductive material 1913 disposed therebetween. Insulator/partially conductive material 1913 includes a recess 1921 defined therein that is dimensioned to retain a generally triangularly-shaped cutting element 1927 and extends beyond sealing surfaces 1912 a and 1912 b. Jaw member 1920 includes an outer insulative housing 1926 that is dimensioned to house electrically conductive sealing surface 1922. Sealing surface 1922 includes a recess 1933 defined therein that generally compliments the cross sectional profile of cutting element 1927. The cutting element 1927 is dimensioned slightly larger than the recess 1933 such that a gap is formed when the jaw members are closed about tissue, the gap being within the above-identified working range.

During sealing (Vseal), the sealing plates 1912 a and 1912 b are energized to a first potential “+₁” and sealing plate 1922 is energized to a second potential “−”. The cutting element is not energized. Since the insulator or semi-conductor does not conduct energy as well as the conductive sealing plates 1912 a and 1912 b, the first potential is not effectively or efficiently transferred to the cutting element 1927 and the tissue is not necessarily heated or damaged during the sealing phase. During the sealing phase energy is transferred from the sealing plates 1912 a and 1912 b through the tissue and to the return electrode 1922 (Vreturn). It is believed that even if some energy is effectively transferred to the cutting element 1927 during the sealing phase, it will simply preheat or pre-treat the tissue prior to separation and should not affect the cutting phase. During the sealing phase, the cutting element 1927 mainly acts as a stop member for creating and maintaining a gap between the opposing sealing surfaces 1912 a, 1912 b and 1922.

During the cutting phase (Vcut), a first potential “+₂” is supplied to the cutting element 1927 and a second potential “−” is supplied to the sealing surface 1922. The electrical parameters (power, current, waveform, etc.) associated with this phase may be the same or different than the potentials used for the sealing phase. It is believed that similar first and second potentials may be utilized since different components with varying geometries are being energized, which by themselves may create different electrical effects. As can be appreciated, during the cutting phase energy is transferred from the cutting element 1927 through the tissue and to the return electrode 1922 (Vreturn). It is believed that even if some energy is transferred to the sealing plates 1912 a and 1912 b during the cutting phase through the insulator/semi-conductor 1913, it will not detrimentally effect the already formed tissue seals. Moreover, it is believed that one or more sensors (not shown), computer algorithms and/or feedback controls associated with the generator or internally disposed within the forceps may be employed to prevent overheating of the tissue during the sealing and cutting phases.

FIGS. 6A-6D show additional embodiments of jaw members having various electrode assemblies that may be utilized for sealing and cutting tissue disposed between the jaw members. For example, FIG. 6A shows a first or upper jaw member 2010 for use with an electrode assembly 2005 that includes an electrically conductive sealing surface 2012 having a recess 2021 defined therein dimensioned to house an insulator 2013. The insulator also includes a notch 2049 disposed therein that partially houses a generally rectilinearly-shaped cutting electrode 2027. Electrode 2027 is recessed or set back within notch 2049. Jaw member 2020 includes an electrically conductive sealing surface 2022 that is disposed in substantial vertical registration with opposing sealing surface 2012. Sealing surface 2022 includes a generally rectilinearly-shaped insulator 2023 that extends towards jaw member 2010 and is configured to abut electrode 2027 when the jaw members 2010 and 2020 are moved into the closed position about tissue. As can be appreciated, the insulator 2023 acts as a stop member and creates a gap distance within the above working range during the sealing process. In addition, the two insulators 2013 and 2023 insulate the upper jaw member 2010 during the cutting phase and generally direct the cutting current from the cutting element 2027 in an intense fashion towards the return electrode 2022 (Vreturn) to effectively cut tissue.

FIG. 6B shows yet another embodiment of an electrode assembly 2105 disposed on jaw members 2110 and 2120. More particularly, jaw members 2110 and 2120 include electrically conductive sealing surfaces 2112 and 2122, respectively, disposed in general vertical registration relative to one another and that are configured to seal tissue during the sealing phase. Much like the embodiment described above with respect to FIG. 6A, jaw member 2110 includes a recess 2121 defined therein dimensioned to house an insulator 2113. Jaw member 2120 includes an electrically conductive sealing surface 2122 that is disposed in substantial vertical registration with opposing sealing surface 2112. Jaw member 2120 includes an insulator 2123 disposed therein that is disposed opposite recess 2121.

The insulator 2113 also includes a T-shaped cutting element 2127 housed therein which defines two notches 2149 a and 2149 b on either side of a leg or extension 2127 a which extends towards jaw member 2120. The cutting element 2127 may be made from a relatively low conductive material and includes an area of highly conductive material 2139 disposed at the distal end of the leg 2127 a. The highly conductive material 2139 is disposed in vertical registration with the insulator 2123 disposed in jaw member 2120. During activation of the cutting phase, it is believed that the highly conductive material 2139 will focus the cutting current in an intense fashion towards the return electrode 2122 (Vreturn) to cut the tissue disposed between jaw members 2110 and 2120.

FIG. 6C shows yet another set of jaw members 2210 and 2220 with an electrode assembly 2205 disposed thereon for sealing and cutting tissue. More particularly, jaw member 2210 includes an electrically conductive sealing surface 2212 having a recessed portion 2221 disposed therein for housing an insulator 2213 which, in turn, houses a generally V-shaped cutting element 2227 therein. Jaw member 2220 includes an electrically conductive sealing surface 2222 which opposes sealing surface 2212 on jaw member 2210. During the sealing phase, sealing surfaces 2212 and 2222 conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal. V-shaped cutting element 2227 acts as a stop member during the sealing phase.

During the cutting phase, V-shaped cutting element 2227 pinches the tissue held between the jaw members 2210 and 2220 and when activated directs electrosurgical energy through the tissue in an intense fashion around insulator 2213 and towards sealing surface 2212. Jaw member 2220 remains neutral during the cutting phase and is not believed to significantly alter the direction of the electrical path to adversely effect the cutting process.

FIG. 6D shows yet another embodiment of jaw members 2310 and 2320 having an alternative electrode assembly 2305 for sealing and cutting tissue. More particularly, the electrode assembly 2305 is similar to the electrode configuration of the embodiment described with respect to FIG. 6C with the exception that the lower jaw member 2320 includes an insulator 2323 disposed in vertical registration with the cutting element 2327 disposed within the recess 2321 of the upper jaw member 2310. In this instance, the cutting element 2327 is dimensioned to be wider than the insulator 2323 such that the rear portions of the V-shaped cutting element extend laterally beyond the insulator 2323 when the jaw members 2310 and 2320 are disposed in the closed position. In other words the, cutting element 2327 includes an overhang portion which is disposed in opposing vertical registration with the return electrode 2322. The insulator 2313 disposed within the recess 2321 of the upper jaw member 2310 helps to direct the electrosurgical energy towards the return electrode 2322 during cutting and reduces stray currents to adjacent tissue structures.

During the sealing phase, sealing surfaces 2312 and 2322 conduct electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween to effect two tissues seals on opposite sides of insulator 2313. V-shaped cutting element 2327 acts as a stop member during the sealing phase. During the cutting phase, jaw member 2310 is neutralized and cutting element 2327 is energized such that electrosurgical energy is directed from the cutting element 2327 through tissue held between the jaw members 2310 and 2320 and to the return electrode 2322 (Vreturn). It is believed that the V-shaped cutting element 2327 will direct energy to the return electrode 2322 in an intense fashion around insulator 2323 and towards sealing surface 2212 to effectively cut the tissue between the already formed tissue seals.

FIGS. 7A-7D show various geometric configurations of cutting elements and insulators for use with the electrode assemblies of forceps 10, 100 according to the present disclosure. For example, FIG. 7A shows one embodiment wherein one of the electrode assemblies 2405 includes jaw members 2420 having first and second electrically conductive sealing surfaces 2422 a and 2422 b which are of opposite electrical potentials and which are separated by a trapeziodally-shaped insulator 2423 which extends beyond each respective sealing surface 2422 a and 2422 b. As can be appreciated the particular shape of the frustoconically-shaped insulator 2423 forms two recessed portions 2459 a and 2459 b between the sealing surfaces 2422 a, 2422 b and the insulator 2423 which is envisioned to both pinch the tissue between the insulator 2423 and the opposing surface (e.g., another insulator or conductive surface) and control the electrosurgical energy during activation to facilitate cutting.

FIG. 7B shows another similar embodiment which includes a frustoconcically-shaped insulator 2523 which does not extend beyond the sealing surfaces 2522 a and 2522 b but is actually slightly set back from the sealing surfaces 2522 a and 2522 b. Again, the particular shape of the trapezoidally-shaped insulator 2523 forms two recessed portions 2559 a and 2559 b between the sealing surfaces 2522 a, 2522 b and the insulator 2523 which is envisioned to control the electrosurgical energy during activation to enhance the cutting process.

FIG. 7C shows another geometrical configuration of an electrode assembly 2605 which includes one active electrically conductive surface 2622 a and one neutral electrically conductive surface 2622 b during the cutting phase. A cutting element 2627 is disposed between the two surfaces 2622 a and 2622 b and is separated from the surfaces by an insulator 2623 which is recessed between the two surfaces 2622 a and 2622 b to form notches or set back areas 2659 a and 2659 b. The cutting element 2627 is designed with a smaller radius of curvature than the active electrode 2622 a such that during the cutting phase, electrosurgical energy is intensified to create a sufficient power density to effectively cut tissue proximate the cutting element 2627.

FIG. 7D shows another geometric configuration of an electrode assembly 2705 similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7C above wherein the insulator 2723 is configured to be generally flush with the surfaces 2722 a and 2722 b. The cutting element 2727 is disposed within the insulator 2723 and extends from both the insulator 2723 and the surfaces 2722 a and 2722 b towards an opposing surface on the other jaw member (not shown). It is believed that the shape of the insulator 2723 will direct intensified electrosurgical current between the cutting element 2727 and the active conductive surface 2722 a.

FIG. 7E shows yet another electrode assembly 2805 having a jaw member 2820 with a geometric configuration similar FIG. 7C above wherein the insulator 2823 is recessed between the two sealing surfaces 2822 a and 2822 b. A generally rounded cutting element 2827 is disposed within the insulator 2823. The cutting element 2827 includes a larger radius of curvature than the radius of curvature of the active surface 2822 a such that during the cutting phase, electrosurgical energy is intensified to effectively cut tissue proximate the cutting element 2827.

As can be appreciated, the various geometrical configurations and electrical arrangements of the electrode assemblies allow the surgeon to initially activate the two opposing electrically conductive tissue contacting surfaces and seal the tissue and, subsequently, selectively and independently activate the cutting element and one or more tissue contacting surfaces to cut the tissue utilizing the various shown electrode assembly configurations. Hence, the tissue is initially sealed and thereafter cut without re-grasping the tissue.

However, the cutting element and one or more tissue contacting surfaces may also be activated to simply cut tissue/vessels without initially sealing. For example, the jaw members may be positioned about tissue and the cutting element may be selectively activated to separate or simply coagulate tissue. This type of alternative embodiment may be particularly useful during certain endoscopic procedures wherein an electrosurgical pencil is typically introduced to coagulate and/or dissect tissue during the operating procedure.

A switch 70 may be employed to allow the surgeon to selectively activate one or more tissue contacting surfaces or the cutting element independently of one another. As can be appreciated, this allows the surgeon to initially seal tissue and then activate the cutting element by simply turning the switch. Rocker switches, toggle switches, flip switches, dials, etc. are types of switches which can be commonly employed to accomplish this purpose. The switch may also cooperate with the smart sensor (or smart circuit, computer, feedback loop, etc.) which automatically triggers the switch to change between the “sealing” mode and the “cutting” mode upon the satisfaction of a particular parameter. For example, the smart sensor may include a feedback loop which indicates when a tissue seal is complete based upon one or more of the following parameters: tissue temperature, tissue impedance at the seal, change in impedance of the tissue over time and/or changes in the power or current applied to the tissue over time. An audible or visual feedback monitor may be employed to convey information to the surgeon regarding the overall seal quality or the completion of an effective tissue seal. A separate lead may be connected between the smart sensor and the generator for visual and/or audible feedback purposes.

The generator 500 delivers energy to the tissue in a pulse-like waveform. It has been determined that delivering the energy in pulses increases the amount of sealing energy which can be effectively delivered to the tissue and reduces unwanted tissue effects such as charring. Moreover, the feedback loop of the smart sensor can be configured to automatically measure various tissue parameters during sealing (i.e., tissue temperature, tissue impedance, current through the tissue) and automatically adjust the energy intensity and number of pulses as needed to reduce various tissue effects such as charring and thermal spread.

It has also been determined that RF pulsing may be used to more effectively cut tissue. For example, an initial pulse from the cutting element through the tissue (or the tissue contacting surfaces through the tissue) may be delivered to provide feedback to the smart sensor for selection of the ideal number of subsequent pulses and subsequent pulse intensity to effectively and consistently cut the amount or type of tissue with minimal effect on the tissue seal. If the energy is not pulsed, the tissue may not initially cut but desiccate since tissue impedance remains high during the initial stages of cutting. By providing the energy in short, high energy pulses, it has been found that the tissue is more likely to cut.

Alternatively, a switch may be configured to activate based upon a desired cutting parameter and/or after an effective seal is created or has been verified. For example, after effectively sealing the tissue, the cutting element may be automatically activated based upon a desired end tissue thickness at the seal.

As mentioned in many of the above embodiments, upon compression of the tissue, the cutting element acts as a stop member and creates a gap “G” between the opposing conductive tissue contacting surfaces. Particularly with respect to vessel sealing, the gap distance is in the range of about 0.001 to about 0.006 inches. As mentioned above, controlling both the gap distance “G” and clamping pressure between conductive surfaces are two important mechanical parameters which need to be properly controlled to assure a consistent and effective tissue seal. The surgeon activates the generator to transmit electrosurgical energy to the tissue contacting surfaces and through the tissue to affect a seal. As a result of the unique combination of the clamping pressure, gap distance “G” and electrosurgical energy, the tissue collagen melts into a fused mass with limited demarcation between opposing vessel walls.

Once sealed, the surgeon activates the cutting element to cut the tissue. As mentioned above, the surgeon does not necessarily need to re-grasp the tissue to cut, i.e., the cutting element is already positioned proximate the ideal, center cutting line of the seal. During the cutting phase, highly concentrated electrosurgical energy travels from the cutting element through the tissue to cut the tissue into two distinct halves. As mentioned above, the number of pulses required to effectively cut the tissue and the intensity of the cutting energy may be determined by measuring the seal thickness and/or tissue impedance and/or based upon an initial calibrating energy pulse which measures similar parameters. A smart sensor (not shown) or feedback loop may be employed for this purpose.

As can be appreciated, the forceps may be configured to automatically cut the tissue once sealed or the instrument may be configured to permit the surgeon to selectively divide the tissue once sealed. Moreover, it is envisioned that an audible or visual indicator (not shown) may be triggered by a sensor (not shown) to alert the surgeon when an effective seal has been created. The sensor may, for example, determine if a seal is complete by measuring one of tissue impedance, tissue opaqueness and/or tissue temperature. Commonly-owned U.S. application Ser. No. 10/427,832 which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference herein describes several electrical systems which may be employed to provide positive feedback to the surgeon to determine tissue parameters during and after sealing and to determine the overall effectiveness of the tissue seal.

The electrosurgical intensity from each of the electrically conductive surfaces and cutting elements may be selectively or automatically controllable to assure consistent and accurate cutting along the centerline of the tissue in view of the inherent variations in tissue type and/or tissue thickness. Moreover, it is contemplated that the entire surgical process may be automatically controlled such that after the tissue is initially grasped the surgeon may simply activate the forceps to seal and subsequently cut tissue. In this instance, the generator may be configured to communicate with one or more sensors (not shown) to provide positive feedback to the generator during both the sealing and cutting processes to insure accurate and consistent sealing and division of tissue. Any suitable feedback mechanism may be employed for this purpose.

From the foregoing and with reference to the various figure drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications can also be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, cutting element may be dimensioned as a cutting wire which is selectively activatable by the surgeon to divide the tissue after sealing. More particularly, a wire is mounted within the insulator between the jaw members and is selectively energizable upon activation of the switch.

The forceps may be designed such that it is fully or partially disposable depending upon a particular purpose or to achieve a particular result. For example, the electrode assembly may be selectively and releasably engageable with the distal end of the shaft and/or the proximal end of shaft may be selectively and releasably engageable with the housing and the handle assembly. In either of these two instances, the forceps would be considered “partially disposable” or “reposable”, i.e., a new or different electrode assembly (or electrode assembly and shaft) selectively replaces the old electrode assembly as needed.

The electrode assembly may be selectively detachable (i.e., reposable) from the shaft depending upon a particular purpose, e.g., specific forceps could be configured for different tissue types or thicknesses. Moreover, a reusable forceps could be sold as a kit having different electrodes assemblies for different tissue types. The surgeon simply selects the appropriate electrode assembly for a particular tissue type.

The forceps may also include a mechanical or electrical lockout mechanism which prevents the sealing surfaces and/or the cutting element from being unintentionally activated when the jaw members are disposed in the open configuration.

Although the subject forceps and electrode assemblies have been described with respect to preferred embodiments, it will be readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art to which it appertains that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject devices. For example, although the specification and drawing disclose that the electrically conductive surfaces may be employed to initially seal tissue prior to electrically cutting tissue in one of the many ways described herein, the electrically conductive surfaces may be configured and electrically designed to perform any known bipolar or monopolar function such as electrocautery, hemostasis, and/or desiccation utilizing one or both jaw members to treat the tissue. Moreover, the jaw members in their presently described and illustrated formation may be energized to simply cut tissue without initially sealing tissue which may prove beneficial during particular surgical procedures. Moreover, the various geometries of the jaw members, cutting elements, insulators and semi-conductive materials and the various electrical configurations associated therewith may be utilized for other surgical instrumentation depending upon a particular purpose, e.g., cutting instruments, coagulation instruments, electrosurgical scissors, etc.

Various arrangements may be utilized in order to assist in the cutting of tissue. One such arrangement involves placing the tissue under a tensile force, which thereby eases the tissue separation. Tension, as defined herein, includes but is not limited to motion, force, pressure, stress and/or strain that is initiated by externally applied energy and/or internally generated energy. This tension assisted tissue division may be accomplished in a number of ways including but not limited to grasping features, expanding jaw features, shearing features, compressible features, expanding electrodes, pinch effect, moving members, moving instruments, internal or external stress or strain. Some of the possible energy types include, but are not limited to mechanical, ultrasonic, harmonic, thermal, laser and microwave. Some envisioned embodiments are discussed hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 8A-F.

FIG. 8A shows yet another embodiment of jaw members 2910 and 2920 having an alternative electrode assembly 2905 for sealing and cutting tissue. More particularly, the electrode assembly 2905 is similar to the electrode configuration of the embodiment described with respect to FIG. 6D with the exception that graspers 2981 are provided which assist in the cutting of tissue by creating tension on the tissue. The graspers 2981 hold the tissue and provide added stress in the cut zone to assist in tissue division. The graspers 2981 may be constructed of any number of materials including ceramic, polymeric, etc. As the tissue is heated it contracts or shrinks creating tension between the graspers 2981, which, in turn, stretches the tissue and allows for cleaner separation of tissue. It is envisioned that the graspers 2981 could be used in conjunction with any of the embodiments described herein.

FIG. 8B shows another embodiment of jaw members 3010 and 3020 having an alternative electrode assembly 3005 for sealing and cutting tissue. More particularly, the electrode assembly 3005 is similar to that shown in FIG. 8A however, an expandable cutting electrode 3083 or jaw feature is included in order to provide additional tension to the tissue. It is envisioned for expandable cutting electrode 3083 to be constructed of a shape memory alloy (SMA) such as Nitinol. A Shape-Memory Alloy is a metal that, after being strained, at a certain temperature reverts back to its original shape. Different types of expandable and compressible materials may be used to produce tension on the tissue (e.g. silicon with a shore A durometer).

FIG. 8C shows another embodiment wherein the jaw members 3110 and 3120 have an alternative electrode assembly 3105 for sealing and cutting tissue. More particularly, the electrode assembly 3105 is similar to that shown in FIG. 8A, however, a slot 3185 defined in jaw member 3120 is further included which may work with graspers (not shown) or the expandable material 3083 mentioned above to create a tensile force upon the tissue during grasping. This design utilizes a mechanical shearing effect to create tension upon the tissue.

FIG. 8D shows yet another embodiment of jaw members 3210 and 3220 having an alternative electrode assembly 3205 for sealing and cutting tissue. More particularly, the electrode assembly 3205 is similar to that shown in FIG. 8A, however a spring or spring-like device 3287 is connected to the cut electrode 3227 and a slot 3285 is included to create tissue tension when grasped. Although slot 3285 is shown without an insulator an insulator could be included adjacent slot 3285. Spring 3287 may be constructed of an expandable material such as Nitinol or other known shape-memory alloys. The use of graspers 2981, expandable materials 3083 and other methods of moving the cut electrode 3227 within the cutting area are also envisioned. As mentioned hereinbefore, cut electrode 3227 may take on a variety of suitable geometrical configurations including, but not limited to, square, triangular, rounded, spiral, etc.

FIGS. 8E and 8F show alternate embodiments of jaw members 3310 and 3320 having an alternative electrode assembly 3305 for sealing and cutting tissue. In FIG. 8E the tissue is subjected to tension upon jaw closure. More specifically, the jaw members 3310, 3320 and electrodes 3327 are placed in an angular relationship with each other providing a tensioning effect when the jaw members 3310, 3320 are closed. Different sizes and shapes for the electrodes 3327 are contemplated. The numerous geometries and configurations of electrodes 3327 and jaw members 3310, 3320 described herein may be utilized in accordance with this embodiment.

FIG. 8F shows jaw member 3420 having a tissue tensioning mechanism 3489 disposed between electrodes 3427. As tissue shrinkage occurs the tissue comes into contact with the tensioning mechanism 3489, further stretching the tissue and providing additional tension. As shown in FIG. 8F, the tensioning mechanism 3489 may have a pointed or triangular tip which aides in tissue division. However, multiple geometrical configurations are possible. The tensioning mechanism 3489 could be rounded, rectangular, square, spiral, frusto-conical, etc. In FIG. 8F the tensioning mechanism 3489 is shown on the lower jaw 3420, however, the mechanism may also be on the upper jaw 3410, lower jaw 3420, or both. Moreover, tensioning mechanisms 3489 may be placed in different and varying locations on jaws 3410, 3420.

The electrode assembly 3505 as shown in FIG. 9A may be formed in a variety of suitable ways. FIGS. 9A and 9B show electrodes formed by using metal deposition/photochemical etching or stamping processes. Although, only one jaw member 3510 is shown in the figures, the opposing jaw member 3520 is envisioned to have a similar or complimentary configuration. FIG. 9A shows a seal plate 3591 having an electrically conductive tissue sealing surface 3593 and a cut electrode or electrically conductive cutting element 3527. The seal plate 3591 may be photochemically etched or stamped and then formed into its final shape by stages in a progressive stamping die. The stamping die would raise the cut electrode 3527 above the seal surface 3593. Multiple thin supports 3595 may be utilized to hold the cut electrode 3527 in place, only to be subsequently lanced out after the molding step to ensure electrical insulation. Seal plate 3591 may be backed by a rigid structural support 3599 that may be perforated to allow overmolded material to flow therethrough. Seal plate 3591 may then be overmolded or bonded to the final jaw shape. Crimping terminals 3590 may be included to hold the wires or electrical connections in electrical communication with the seal plates 3591. The electrical connections may also be soldered or welded.

FIG. 9B shows a cross-sectional view of the seal plate 3591 of FIG. 9A. Raised cut electrode 3527 is shown having an indentation 3593 from chemical milling or other methods. This indentation 3593 is located on the side of cut electrode 3527 and serves to hold electrode 3527 in place once embedded in plastic or other insulating materials. Structural backing 3599 (which may be perforated to allow overmolded material to flow therethrough) is shown underneath seal plate 3591. Seal plate 3591 is shown surrounded by an insulative overmolded structure 3597.

FIG. 10A shows an alternate embodiment of the seal plate 3791 of the present disclosure. In this embodiment a curved jaw shape is shown having a current path 3799 or bridge located at the distal end of the seal plate 3791. As shown above the seal plate 3791 may extend beyond the supporting jaw member 3710 and the cut electrode 3727 may extend through the center of the jaw member 3710. The outer edges of the curved jaw 3710 may be used for manipulating and sealing tissue.

FIG. 10B is similar to that shown in FIG. 9B showing a cross-sectional view of the seal plate 3791 of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10B shows a flow channel 3780 with perforations located beneath the cut electrode 3727. An optional insulation layer 3782 may be provided between seal plate 3791 and rigid structural support or backing 3795. Rigid structural support 3795 may contain perforations that allow insulative overmolded structure 3797 to flow therethrough during the manufacturing process. This provides additional support for the seal plate 3791. As mentioned hereinbefore, the electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces may be formed using a variety of suitable techniques including, but not limited to, photochemical etching and stamping processes.

FIG. 10C shows jaw member 3710 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure having bridge 3799. Bridge 3799 may protrude outward from jaw 3710 to provide additional functions such as mechanical dissection. Alternatively, bridge 3799 could be folded under and covered by overmolded structure 3797. FIG. 10D shows jaw member 3710 in its final bent shape.

FIG. 11A shows jaw member 3910 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Jaw member 3910 includes pivot point 3984 located on the proximal end of jaw member 3910. Jaw member 3910 is configured to pivot about the pivot point 3984 and may be affixed with a pin, bolt, screw, or alternative mechanism. Hole 3997 can be used to open/close or otherwise move the jaw member. Jaw member 3910 may further include flow holes 3986 and seal plate 3991 or seal plate support 3795. An insulator similar to 3782 may be used and constructed of a number of different materials including, but not limited to, polymeric, ceramic or other materials.

FIG. 11B shows an example of structural backing 4095 which may be used to support the jaw members. Structural backing 4095 may be perforated to allow the overmolded material to flow therethrough during manufacturing for securing purposes. The backing 4095 may be straight or curved, depending upon the shape of the jaw member. The backing 4095 may also be formed by stamping, photo-etching, machining, etc.

FIG. 11C shows yet another embodiment of a jaw member 4110 according to the present disclosure without the flow holes 3986 shown in FIG. 11A. However, in this embodiment jaw member 4110 further includes a cam slot 4188 defined therein in addition to the pivot hole 4184 of FIG. 11A. Cam slot 4188 is configured and dimensioned to regulate the movement of jaw member 4110 from the open to close positions.

While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto. 

1. An end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing and/or cutting vessels and/or tissue, the end effector assembly comprising: a pair of opposing first and second jaw members at least one of which is movable relative to the other from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween; each jaw member including an electrically conductive tissue sealing surface extending along a length thereof, each tissue sealing surface being adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surfaces are capable of conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a seal; an insulative support element configured to support each electrically conductive sealing surface; an electrically conductive cutting element disposed within a slot defined in at least one jaw member; and a rigid structural support disposed within the insulative support of the at least one jaw member having the electrically conductive cutting element configured in general vertical registration with the electrically conductive tissue sealing surface including at least one flow channel defined therein.
 2. An end effector assembly according to claim 1 further comprising a layer of insulative material disposed between the electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces and the rigid structural support.
 3. An end effector assembly according to claim 2 wherein the electrically conductive cutting element includes at least one mechanically interfacing surface configured to mate with the insulative material to retain the electrically conductive cutting element within the insulator.
 4. An end effector assembly according to claim 1 wherein the rigid structural support includes perforations.
 5. An end effector assembly according to claim 4 wherein the insulator is located between the perforations of the rigid structural support.
 6. An end effector assembly according to claim 1 wherein the electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces are photochemically etched onto the insulative support element.
 7. An end effector assembly according to claim 1 wherein the electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces are formed onto the insulative support element by a stamping process.
 8. An end effector assembly according to claim 1 wherein at least one of the insulators is configured to at least partially extend to a position which is at least substantially flush with the cutting element.
 9. An end effector assembly according to claim 1 further comprising a second electrically conductive cutting element disposed within the insulative material of the opposing jaw member, the second electrically conductive cutting element generally opposing the first electrically conductive cutting element.
 10. An end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing and/or cutting vessels and/or tissue, the end effector assembly comprising: a pair of opposing first and second jaw members at least one of which being movable relative to the other from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween; each jaw member including a pair of spaced apart, electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces extending along a length thereof, each tissue sealing surface being adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surfaces are capable of conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a seal; an insulator disposed between each pair of electrically conductive sealing surfaces; the first jaw member including an electrically conductive cutting element disposed within the insulator of the first jaw member, the electrically conductive cutting element disposed in general vertical registration to the insulator on the second jaw member; and at least one tissue tensioning mechanism configured to provide tension to tissue held between jaw members.
 11. An end effector assembly according to claim 10 further including a slot defined within the second jaw member, the slot configured to receive the electrically conductive cutting element and create tension upon tissue.
 12. An end effector assembly according to claim 10 wherein the electrically conductive tissue sealing surfaces are disposed in an angular relationship relative to one another.
 13. An end effector assembly according to claim 10 wherein the electrically conductive cutting element is constructed of an expandable material.
 14. An end effector assembly according to claim 13 wherein the expandable material is a shaped memory alloy (SMA).
 15. An end effector assembly according to claim 12 wherein the electrically conductive cutting element includes a spring-like device.
 16. An end effector assembly for use with an instrument for sealing and/or cutting vessels and/or tissue, the end effector assembly comprising: a pair of opposing first and second jaw members at least one of which is movable relative to the other from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween; each jaw member including an electrically conductive tissue sealing surface extending along a length thereof, each tissue sealing surface being adapted to connect to a source of electrosurgical energy such that the tissue sealing surfaces are capable of conducting electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a seal; an insulative support element configured to support each electrically conductive sealing surface; an electrically conductive cutting element disposed within a slot defined in at least one jaw member; a rigid structural support disposed within the insulative support of the at least one jaw member having the electrically conductive cutting element configured in general vertical registration with the electrically conductive tissue sealing surface including at least one flow channel defined therein; and wherein tension is imparted to tissue to assist in tissue cutting. 